Minnesota’s joint practice with New England produced a high-octane, data-driven showcase of the Vikings’ offense under JJ McCarthy, with Jordan Addison seizing the moment as the primary win-rate target in Jefferson’s absence. McCarthy exhibited quick reads, accurate intermediate throws, and notable two-minute-drill execution, moving the ball efficiently and carving up a savvy Patriots defense despite heavy pressure up front. Donovan Jackson’s elite screen-work and the re-emergence of Christian Darasaw on the line added tangible offensive upside, while the team’s evolving depth at wide receiver—led by Lucky Jackson, Tim Jones, and rookies like Zamaya Vaughn and Xavier Scott—kept the WR competition wide open. The defense pressured but Vikings’ blockers adjusted, and the red-zone/short-yardage horizon tomorrow will be the true test of McCarthy’s growth arc and the offense’s ceiling this preseason.

Purple Insider’s Vikings preseason recap centers on breakout backup performances and roster-shaping questions. Joe Huber delivered a staggering 94.7 grade, forcing evaluators to rethink the backup guard/center dynamics behind the starting unit as Walter Rouse flashed left/right tackle versatility. Xavier Scott impressed as a Mr. Mano-like playmaker at receiver/running back depth, while Lucky Jackson’s strong showing cements him as a legitimate WR3 option behind Jefferson and Addison. Max Brosmer’s poised command and quick release kept the QB depth chart alive, with Gabe Murphy and Elijah Williams highlighting a disruptive edge presence that could push rotation debate on the front seven. Zamaya Vaughn showed solid coverage and targets, adding to a crowded but intriguing group of depth players for November practice squad considerations. Donovan Jackson’s early pass protection hiccup remains a poke at the starter path, while the O-line’s overall health and Darasaw’s status loom over Week 1 projections. The chat also teased potential near-term additions at returner and center to shore up special teams and the depth chart as cutdowns approach.

As the Vikings head into joint practices with New England, the emphasis shifts to evaluating behind-the-scenes roles. The QB depth picture hinges on Brosmer’s progress and Howell’s performance under vanilla defenses—both will influence how aggressively Minnesota pursues veteran help or keeps faith with its current mix. The receiver room’s evolution, especially Lucky Jackson’s trajectory, will determine whether Minnesota carries a fourth pass-c catcher or bridges with duel-threat options like Rod Moore or Amari Cooper rumors. On defense, Murphy, Williams, Chamblas, and Vaughn are the names to watch as the team weighs development versus ready-made depth. For fantasy managers, this batch of UDFA and depth players signals notable late-round considerations and potential waiver-wire targets as rosters firm up.